UK Politics (Parliament Politics Magazine) – Liberal Democrat leader Sir Ed Davey has defended his colourful campaign stunts during the 2024 and 2025 election periods, asserting that while his party uses these tactics to attract attention, they remain very serious about policy and political change. As the Lib Dem conference opens, Davey stresses his party’s unity and the practical, radical policies they offer in contrast to Labour, the Conservatives, and Reform UK
Lib Dems’ Leadership and Unity Ahead of Conference
As reported by Andy Gregory of The Independent, Sir Ed Davey, leader of the Liberal Democrats, asserted the seriousness of his party amidst questions and criticisms surrounding his use of stunts in campaigning ahead of the party conference. Speaking on the unity of the party, he stated,
“We are very serious,”
and noted that the Liberal Democrats are the most united political party in Westminster by a considerable margin. Davey acknowledged reports that some MPs had expressed frustrations with what they termed “bull**** stunts” but firmly brushed these aside. He conveyed confidence in the party’s direction and its role as an alternative to both Labour and the Tories, especially as those parties have fallen in opinion polls.
Davey outlined the Lib Dems’ vision for practical and radical change that contrasts sharply with Nigel Farage’s Reform UK party. He described Reform UK’s policies as aiming to
“make the UK more like Trump’s America, with all the chaos that entails,”
including worsening healthcare costs and economic disruption. In contrast, the Liberal Democrats seek to embody “British values” through reforms in social care, renewable energy, and strengthened trade relationships with Europe.
Defence of Campaign Stunts and Media Attention
As detailed by Robert Cox of ITV News West Country, Davey first became known for his campaign stunts during the 2024 general election, including activities such as riding theme park attractions, water sports, and other public demonstrations designed to highlight key policies. Davey insisted that these stunts were not frivolous but purposeful. “There’s always a serious message behind our photo ops,” he remarked, emphasising his intention not to take himself too seriously while treating voters’ concerns very seriously.
At the opening of the 2024 Brighton conference, which focused on health and social care, Davey arrived on a jet ski, as covered by BBC News, continuing the pattern of high-profile entrances. These stunts have drawn both praise for innovatively drawing attention to policy and criticism from within his party, with some MPs urging him to tone down the theatrics.
Policy Focus and Stance on National Issues
Davey’s approach extends beyond stunts. As reported by BBC News and Sky News correspondents, the Liberal Democrat leader has positioned his party as champions of carers and advocates for practical policy reform. In a poignant speech at the Liberal Democrat conference, Davey pledged to be a fierce advocate for carers, declaring,
“care and carers must not be forgotten and ignored any longer,”
promising to raise these issues loudly in parliament.
The leader also maintains a critical stance on international issues, notably refusing attendance at a state banquet for former U.S. President Donald Trump during his 2025 UK state visit, as reported by the BBC’s Laura Kuenssberg. Davey cited the humanitarian crisis in Gaza and Trump’s “power to stop the horrifying starvation and death” as reasons for his boycott. Despite this, he acknowledged the honour of a royal invitation, calling his decision a difficult moral choice.
Electoral Gains and Electoral Strategy
The Liberal Democrats achieved their best result in decades in the 2024 general election, winning 72 parliamentary seats. This milestone has bolstered Davey’s confidence and provided momentum heading into the conference. He described the result as the largest number of MPs for over 100 years in the party’s history. Speaking to media outlets including the Independent, Davey urged his party and supporters to “finish the job” to overtake the Conservatives, emphasising his belief that the Lib Dems are the credible third party offering real alternatives on key voter issues such as the NHS, the economy, and the environment.
Conservative and Labour Party Comparison
Davey has been outspoken about the shortcomings and declining public trust in both the Conservative and Labour parties. He described their support as reaching “an all-time low” and argued that the public is disillusioned with the choices presented by these traditional parties. The Lib Dems seek to capitalise on this distrust, highlighting their offers for a new customs union with the EU to rejuvenate the economy and social care reforms as practical solutions.
Summary of Davey’s Statement on Seriousness
Reflecting on the criticisms regarding his campaign style, Ed Davey said,
“We are very serious. We are the only party, for example, urging the government to stand up to Donald Trump. We are the only party speaking of real, practical action to get peace in Gaza. We are the only party talking about the need for an economic coalition of the willing, including a new customs union with the EU to get our economy going again. So we put forward serious, practical policies.”
His message is clear that while his campaigning may include theatrical stunts, the substance beneath remains targeted on achieving political change.